Kellie Curry Raper shares numbers that reflect an overall increase in the proportion of bulls coming through feeder calf sales. She shares data showing that not castrating bull calves costs producers as much as $56/head on 500-pound animals.
Raper also reminds us of research indicating multiple animal performance benefits linked to earlier castration* including shorter initial weight loss periods, lower disease susceptibility, and higher post-weaning ADGs. Additionally, the process is less stressful for calves at younger ages when the calves are lighter, posing less risk of harm to both the calf and the producer.
Source: Drovers, April 11, 2024. Link.
*INSIGHTS: The discussion of early castration reminded us of a post from last fall <Link> introducing Lidoband™, from Solvet. The product is a novel, lidocaine-impregnated latex band approved for use in calves under 250 pounds and in lambs under 50 pounds <Link>.
Lidoband™ aims to address the pain and discomfort associated with band castration, providing local anesthesia from the moment of placement.”